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You can use make-up to cover up some facial flaws, but if you have serious acne on your face, you can't completely hide it. You may feel that you have no way to conceal your imperfections from a world that judges you based on your appearance. Severe acne can have a significant impact on social relationships, and affect a person’s confidence and self-esteem in a way that leads to depression — particularly during the teen years. Depression is very common in people with severe acne, who may feel especially self-conscious about their skin.

To adolescents, appearance and social acceptance are often particularly important — and acne scars can have lasting effects on a teen's self-confidence and self-image.

Studies have found that teenagers living with acne are at a greater risk for anxiety and depression, and are even more likely to attempt suicide. Some people think that the acne treatment isotretinoin could be associated with some cases of depression, though research has not shown this to be the case. Experts believe the impact of the acne itself is probably the link between acne and depression.

Warning Signs of Depression

People with acne may exhibit signs of depression stemming from the emotional effects of persistent acne, including:

Frequent crying

Lack of interest in food and eating

Changes in mood

Sudden changes or problems in behavior

Difficulty sleeping

Fatigue or lack of energy

Withdrawing socially from family and friends

Sudden performance problems at school or work

Treating Acne and Depression

To deal with depression brought on by acne, it's important to treat both conditions and focus on your health inside and outside.

If you have acne that you can't control with over-the-counter acne treatments, see a dermatologist. Prescription oral and topical medications can clear up acne and prevent future breakouts — giving you clear skin and improved confidence in your physical appearance.

A psychotherapist, psychiatrist, or other mental health professional can help you deal with your depression, and any other mental health issues that could result from or be worsened by your acne. To treat depression, a mental health professional may recommend:

Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy

Group or individual counseling sessions

Prescription antidepressant medication

Depression and its symptoms — particularly any discussion or thought of suicide — should always be taken seriously. For people with acne and their friends and family, it's important to be on the lookout for signs of depression so that prompt and appropriate treatment can be sought — to heal both the acne and its emtional effects.